REJECTED

02.18.11

Obama Vetoes U.N. on Israel

Evan Vucci / AP Photo

Under pressure from Israel and Congress, the Obama administration issued its first veto on the U.N. Security Council in order to prevent the committee to issue a resolution condemning Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories. All other 14 members of the council backed the measure, as well as the Palestinian Liberation Organization. It’s a tricky time for the U.S. to protect Israel, as the move stands to pit Arab sentiment against the U.S. at a time when mass protests are rocking the region. Susan Rice, Obama’s ambassador to the U.N., says the veto was issued because it would have complicated peace talks between Palestine and Israel, “hardening” each side’s position.